Visiting a new church can be intimidating — we get it! Here are some answers to a few of the most common questions we have received from first time visitors and guests. Check out the explore section of this website to learn more about our church. And if you have a question that's not listed here, contact us directly and let us know.

+ What kind of church is this?

"Baptist" is a bit of a loaded term these days, claimed by churches across the ideological spectrum. For us, being Baptist means that we affirm the freedom of local congregations to interpret the faith for themselves without outside interference, we resist the imposition of creeds on individual believers, we affirm women in ministry, we believe in the separation of church and state while advocating for religious liberty for all, we welcome all people, and we strive to be ambassadors of God's love and grace in our community and beyond.

+ What is a typical Sunday like?

We gather in the fellowship hall every Sunday around 9:30am for coffee, snacks, and to catch up with each other. Worship begins in the sanctuary at 10am and usually last one hour. We sing some songs together, read a Bible passage or two, pray together, and listen to a sermon. Our teachings tend to be very dynamic, exploring the relevance of the Bible for our time. After church most weeks we continue the conversation with more coffee and snacks in the Fellowship Hall.

+ Is there a dress code?

Come as you are! Some folks wear a suit a tie, others come in a t-shirt and jeans. Our sanctuary isn't air conditioned and it's an older building, so we recommend dressing light in the summer and bringing an extra layer or two when it gets chilly outside.

+ Where are you located?

We are on Main Street in the heart of downtown Brockport. For directions and a map, click here.

+ Where should I park?

Street parking is usually at a premium on Sunday mornings. While there is a small parking lot at the front of the church, your best bet is the municipal parking lot at the intersection of Erie and Queen Streets, just behind the church. We are also walking distance from the SUNY Brockport campus.

+ What do you offer for kids?

We offer a full hour of programming during the worship service for elementary-aged children, including time for worship, snack, a Bible lesson, craft, and various other activities. There is also a nursery for children ages birth to four years. On the fourth Sunday of each month, elementary aged kids stay in the service for the first 20 minutes to experience worship with the adults, after which they are dismissed for a shortened version of their regular Sunday morning programming.

+ Can I take communion?

We welcome everyone to the communion table — long time member or first time visitor, regardless of your faith background (or lack thereof), whether you believe the bread and the cup are purely symbolic or something more. There is no cover charge and no bouncers checking religious IDs at our table. All are welcome.

+ Can I be baptized?

Absolutely! We practice baptism by immersion (i.e., dunking) but we do NOT require folks who have already been baptized (whether by immersion or some other means) to get re-baptized. To learn more about baptism and membership at Brockport First Baptist, click here.

+ What if I have religious baggage?

You are not alone. Many of us are still recovering from past trauma induced by organized religion. Here at Brockport First Baptist, we strive to be a safe and welcoming place for all people. If you'd like to talk to a pastor about your past religious trauma, please contact us and we'll make it happen.

+ Can I bring my water/coffee/ice cream soda into the sanctuary?

Most definitely. And while a little spill can't hurt, a lid is always a good idea.

+ Are LGBT+ people welcome at this church?

Yes! Our church is welcoming and affirming, which is a fancy way to say that LGBT+ folks are fully included here. Whether you're looking to visit, become a member, serve, or lead — your sexual orientation and/or gender identity will not be a hindrance. To read more about our position on this important question, click here.

+ Can I get connected if I'm only in town part of the year?

Absolutely. Our congregation includes college students who are only here when school is in session and snowbirds who fly south for the winter. You don't have to be a permanent resident to connect, serve, and belong here.

+ Can I have lunch with the pastor?

Of course! Pastor Dan loves food and is always eager to meet new people. Contact us and we'll set something up!